Many long-term care operators attempt to measure satisfaction levels of their residents, residents' families and their own employers. However, not many know how to make the best use of the information to improve operations. A free McKnight's webcast starting at 2 p.m. Eastern Time on May 23 will teach attendees to how to best assess and get the most out of satisfaction data for performance improvement, and more.

Fewer than a quarter (23%) of all nursing homes have a plan for dealing with a massive flu outbreak, according to a new study. About 25% had a pandemic response as part of a broader overall disaster plan.

A set of "simple" and "workable" non-pharmacological interventions that staff members could easily implement may be within nursing home operators' grasp for battling a pandemic flu outbreak, researchers say.

Nursing home operators wasted little time Wednesday issuing rebuttals to the federal government's announcement that it would create and publish individual facility rankings on its Web site by the end of the year.

When "Dianne Butler's" mother was rushed to the emergency room with signs of a heart attack, the ER nurses quickly cut away her snug, pullover silk shift. Hurrying to do CPR and start IVs, that dress was the last thing they were worried about...

Senior care's first online trade show and educational meeting returns this morning, with three diverse sessions. Individuals can still sign up for their cost-free look and listen regarding the nationally respected line-up of presenters and suppliers. Simply go to www.mcknights.com to register for access.

The American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES) and the Association for Linen Management (ALM) announced a pricing program for the benefit of members in both organizations. According to the agreement, ALM and ASHES will offer special discounted pricing levels for products and services to members of the other organization. This agreement will allow members of ALM to purchase products and services offered by ASHES at a discounted rate and vise versa.

Staying on top of the latest products, services and industry trends can be a time-devouring pursuit. But the job just became less time consuming, thanks to our new Web site. Eldercare pros can find many time-saving options. These include a substantially enhanced Directory that makes it easier to locate needed services, plus videos of important suppliers. The latest job openings are also available, as well as immediate access to our Career Guide. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with our new site. We think you'll find it's time well spent.

About a decade ago, I wrote a controversial column that offended some readers. In it, I suggested the industry start policing itself by identifying and reprimanding the bad actors in this field, lest the government feel compelled to intervene.

Many observers have questioned why government prosecutors would charge a pair of Louisiana nursing home owners for criminally negligent homicide after an unprecedented natural disaster such as Hurricane Katrina.